WATERTOWN, N.Y. (WWNY) – A Watertown businessman says his tactic to scare away thieves worked.

General Store owner Anthony Doldo says people now think twice before stealing from his store. This drastic change came after Doldo shared pictures of suspected shoplifters on social media.

“I had to do something to stop it,” he said.

When Doldo decided to post pictures of suspected shoplifters on Facebook in June, he wanted to use another tactic against the thieves besides cameras and police.

He says he has since experienced fewer thefts and even an apology.

“One of this person’s parents came in. I was pretty impressed and he apologized. He said they would help her,” he said.

Doldo says his cash flow has been positively impacted by the reduced number of thefts. He says theft can cost the business hundreds of dollars a week, and his employees also suffer the consequences.

“It hurts. As a small business owner, we can’t rely on other locations to pay our bills,” he said.

Doldo says he understands that some people need help and that’s why they steal. He says the General Store is ready to help them.

“We really have a big heart here. I just don’t feel like stealing,” he said.

Doldo says other business owners have reached out to him and are considering using the same scare tactics to prevent thefts.

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